Lanzarote, with its stunning coastline and year-round warm climate, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. This Canary Island offers a diverse range of aquatic activities, from surfing and windsurfing to scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, Lanzarote’s crystal-clear waters and consistent wind conditions provide the perfect playground for maritime adventures.
The island’s unique volcanic landscape extends beneath the waves, creating fascinating underwater environments for exploration. Combined with the Atlantic’s rich marine life, Lanzarote offers unforgettable experiences for those willing to take the plunge. Let’s dive into the exciting world of water sports in Lanzarote and discover the best locations for each activity.
Surfing hotspots: famara beach and la santa
Lanzarote’s northern coast is renowned for its world-class surfing conditions. Famara Beach, a 6-kilometre stretch of golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs, is often referred to as the “European Hawaii” due to its consistent waves and picturesque setting. This beach caters to surfers of all levels, with gentler waves near the shore for beginners and more challenging breaks further out for experienced riders.
La Santa, a small fishing village nearby, offers another excellent surfing spot. The powerful waves here are best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. The area’s reef breaks create long, hollow waves that provide thrilling rides for those skilled enough to tackle them.
Both locations boast several surf schools and equipment rental shops, making it easy for visitors to get started or hone their skills. The best time for surfing in Lanzarote is typically between October and March when the swells are at their most consistent.
Windsurfing and kitesurfing in costa teguise
Costa Teguise, on Lanzarote’s eastern coast, is a mecca for wind-powered water sports. The area’s steady trade winds and protected bays create ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing throughout the year. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an expert seeking to push your limits, Costa Teguise offers something for everyone.
Cucharas beach: prime windsurfing location
Playa de Las Cucharas is widely regarded as one of the best windsurfing beaches in Europe. Its crescent-shaped bay provides shelter from the strongest winds while still offering excellent conditions for windsurfers of all levels. The beach is divided into zones for beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders, ensuring safety and enjoyment for all.
Las caletas: kitesurfing paradise
Just south of Costa Teguise lies Las Caletas, a kitesurfing hotspot known for its consistent side-shore winds. The open waters here provide ample space for kitesurfers to practice their jumps and tricks. The area’s relatively flat water is ideal for both beginners learning to control their kites and experienced riders looking to perform advanced manoeuvres.
Equipment rental and schools at playa jablillo
Playa Jablillo, a small cove in Costa Teguise, is home to numerous water sports centres offering equipment rental and lessons. Here, you can find professional instructors who provide courses for all skill levels in windsurfing and kitesurfing. Many schools offer multi-day packages that combine theory lessons with practical on-water training.
Wind conditions and best seasons for board sports
Lanzarote experiences trade winds throughout the year, with the strongest and most consistent winds typically occurring between May and September. During this period, wind speeds often range from 15 to 25 knots, creating perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. However, even in the winter months, the island still enjoys good wind conditions, making it a year-round destination for wind sports enthusiasts.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in playa chica
Playa Chica, located in Puerto del Carmen, is a hub for underwater exploration in Lanzarote. This small bay offers easy access to some of the island’s most impressive dive sites, suitable for both scuba diving and snorkeling. The clear waters and rich marine life make it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Underwater volcanic formations at museo atlántico
One of Lanzarote’s most unique diving experiences is the Museo Atlántico, Europe’s first underwater museum. Located off the coast of Playa Blanca, this submerged art gallery features over 300 life-size sculptures created by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. The sculptures, made from environmentally friendly materials, serve as artificial reefs, promoting marine life while offering a thought-provoking diving experience.
Marine life at playa flamingo reef
Playa Flamingo, near Playa Blanca, is home to a vibrant reef system teeming with marine life. Snorkelers and divers can explore the shallow waters to observe colourful fish, octopuses, and even sea turtles. The calm conditions and clear visibility make this spot particularly suitable for beginners and families looking to experience Lanzarote’s underwater world.
Night diving experiences in puerto del carmen
For a truly magical underwater experience, consider a night dive in Puerto del Carmen. As the sun sets, a different cast of marine creatures emerges, including bioluminescent organisms that create a mesmerizing light show. Many dive centres in the area offer guided night dives, providing a unique perspective on Lanzarote’s nocturnal marine life.
PADI certification courses in lanzarote
Lanzarote is an excellent place to earn your PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certification. Numerous dive centres across the island offer courses ranging from beginner to professional levels. The warm waters and diverse dive sites provide an ideal environment for learning, with many courses combining classroom instruction with practical underwater sessions.
Kayaking and Stand-Up paddleboarding in papagayo
The Papagayo beaches in southern Lanzarote offer some of the most picturesque coastlines for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). These crystal-clear waters, protected coves, and golden sand beaches create a stunning backdrop for water sports enthusiasts.
Kayaking along the Papagayo coast allows you to explore hidden caves and secluded beaches that are inaccessible by land. Many tour operators offer guided kayak excursions that combine sightseeing with the opportunity to snorkel in tranquil bays.
Stand-up paddleboarding has gained popularity in recent years, and Papagayo’s calm waters are perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. SUP offers a unique perspective of the coastline and a full-body workout. Some operators even offer SUP yoga classes, combining the serenity of yoga with the challenge of balancing on water.
Jet skiing and parasailing in puerto calero
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Puerto Calero offers exciting opportunities for jet skiing and parasailing. The marina here is a hub for high-speed water sports, with several companies offering equipment rentals and guided tours.
Jet skiing allows you to zip across the waves and explore Lanzarote’s coastline at high speeds. Guided tours often include visits to nearby beaches and coves, providing a thrilling way to sightsee. Safety briefings and life jackets are provided, ensuring a secure experience for all participants.
Parasailing in Puerto Calero offers a bird’s-eye view of the island’s stunning landscapes. As you’re lifted high above the water by a speedboat, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the volcanic coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean. This activity is suitable for most ages and provides a unique perspective on Lanzarote’s beauty.
Deep-sea fishing excursions from puerto del carmen
Lanzarote’s waters are rich in marine life, making it an excellent destination for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts. Puerto del Carmen serves as the primary departure point for many fishing charters, offering access to some of the Atlantic’s most prized catches.
Marlin and tuna fishing in atlantic waters
The deep waters off Lanzarote’s coast are home to big game fish such as blue marlin, white marlin, and various species of tuna. Fishing for these powerful creatures requires skill and patience, but the reward of landing a massive fish is unparalleled. Many charters offer full-day excursions specifically tailored for big game fishing, equipped with top-of-the-line gear and experienced crews.
Coastal fishing for barracuda and grouper
For those who prefer staying closer to shore, coastal fishing trips offer the chance to catch species like barracuda, grouper, and sea bass. These half-day trips are suitable for families and less experienced anglers, providing an introduction to saltwater fishing techniques while enjoying Lanzarote’s coastal scenery.
Charter boat options and fishing licenses
Puerto del Carmen offers a range of charter boat options, from small private boats to larger group vessels. Most charters provide all necessary equipment, bait, and refreshments. It’s important to note that a fishing license is required for recreational fishing in Lanzarote’s waters. Many charter companies can assist with obtaining a temporary license, ensuring that your fishing adventure is both legal and enjoyable.
Lanzarote’s diverse water sports offerings cater to all interests and skill levels, from the thrill-seekers to those looking for a relaxing day on the water. With its year-round warm climate and stunning coastal landscapes, the island provides the perfect backdrop for aquatic adventures. Whether you’re riding the waves, exploring underwater worlds, or casting a line into the deep blue Atlantic, Lanzarote’s water sports scene promises unforgettable experiences for all who visit.